NcStar Tactical Backpack, 10″ x 12″ Level III+ Shooter’s Cut PE Hard Ballistic Plate Black Review

The NcStar Tactical Backpack, 10″ x 12″ Level III+ Shooter’s Cut PE Hard Ballistic Plate Black Made a Bold First Impression

In a world where threats are, unfortunately, becoming more prevalent, personal protection has moved beyond firearms and into everyday carry. The NcStar Tactical Backpack, 10″ x 12″ Level III+ Shooter’s Cut PE Hard Ballistic Plate Black aims to provide a discreet layer of defense while maintaining the functionality of a standard tactical backpack. NcStar, a name often associated with budget-friendly tactical gear, has entered the personal protection market with this offering, a combination of a practical backpack and a Level III+ ballistic plate.

As someone who has spent over a decade in the tactical gear industry, I’m always on the lookout for innovative ways to enhance personal safety. The increasing need for discreet protection against unforeseen dangers spurred my interest in this product. I remember one particular incident at an outdoor range where an accidental discharge sent shrapnel flying; the thought of having even a minimal level of protection then resonated strongly.

The NcStar backpack arrived in a plain cardboard box, nothing fancy, but the contents were what mattered. My initial thought was, “This feels surprisingly light,” considering the included ballistic plate. The backpack itself seemed reasonably well-constructed, though the materials didn’t scream “premium.”

I initially considered other options, such as standalone ballistic plates and concealed carry vests. However, I wanted something that could blend into an urban environment without drawing unwanted attention, which a dedicated tactical vest wouldn’t allow. This backpack/plate combo seemed to strike a decent balance. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; I hoped the build quality would hold up during real-world use, and that the ballistic plate would perform as advertised.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar Tactical Backpack, 10″ x 12″ Level III+ Shooter’s Cut PE Hard Ballistic Plate Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I decided to test the NcStar Tactical Backpack, 10″ x 12″ Level III+ Shooter’s Cut PE Hard Ballistic Plate Black during a recent trip to the shooting range and a weekend hiking trip in the local mountains. At the range, I used the backpack as a shooting rest and as a convenient way to carry my gear. The range was outdoors and exposed to a moderate breeze, which was a good test for the pack’s ability to keep items secure.

The main compartment easily held my range bag essentials, including ammo, eye and ear protection, and a cleaning kit. I appreciated the MOLLE webbing for attaching extra pouches, even though I didn’t use them extensively during this first outing. I found the side compartments useful for carrying water bottles and small tools, offering easy access during breaks. The backpack was comfortable to carry, even with the added weight of the ballistic plate, thanks to the adjustable straps.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the NcStar Tactical Backpack, 10″ x 12″ Level III+ Shooter’s Cut PE Hard Ballistic Plate Black on various outdoor excursions, it has held up reasonably well. The stitching shows no signs of unraveling, and the zippers still function smoothly, but the PVC material is starting to show minor scuff marks. I’ve been using it daily carrying my laptop and some basic essentials.

While the backpack is not waterproof, it’s fairly water-resistant and kept my gear dry during a light drizzle. Cleaning is simple; a damp cloth is usually sufficient to wipe away dirt and grime. Compared to other tactical backpacks I’ve owned, the NcStar offering feels less robust.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar Tactical Backpack, 10″ x 12″ Level III+ Shooter’s Cut PE Hard Ballistic Plate Black

Specifications

The NcStar Tactical Backpack, 10″ x 12″ Level III+ Shooter’s Cut PE Hard Ballistic Plate Black features a main compartment with dimensions of 18″ H x 12″ W x 6″ D (1,200 sq inches). It has four side compartments (two on each side) measuring 5″ H x 5″ W x 1.5″ D, a top outside compartment (4.5″ H x 8.5″ W x 2″ D), and a bottom compartment (9.5″ H x 9.5″ W x 3″ D). The material is a combination of PVC and Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE).

The backpack includes a 10″x12″ Shooter’s Cut Level III+ ballistic plate made of Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE). The Level III+ rating indicates the plate is capable of stopping 7.62x51mm NATO rounds, adding a crucial layer of protection. The backpack weighs approximately 90 ounces (5.6 pounds), a reasonable weight considering its protective capabilities.

Performance & Functionality

The backpack performs its primary function of carrying gear adequately, though it does not stand out in terms of innovation. The MOLLE webbing allows for customization, and the various compartments offer sufficient storage. However, the selling point is undoubtedly the Level III+ ballistic plate. The plate is discreetly housed in a back pocket, providing a degree of protection without advertising its presence.

The biggest weakness is the quality of the backpack material itself. A more durable fabric, like Cordura nylon, would significantly improve its longevity. It certainly meets expectations for basic functionality and added safety, but falls short in terms of long-term durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcStar Tactical Backpack, 10″ x 12″ Level III+ Shooter’s Cut PE Hard Ballistic Plate Black has a functional but somewhat basic design. The black color makes it blend easily into urban environments, and the overall shape is similar to many other tactical backpacks. The adjustable compression straps help to secure the load and minimize bulk, which is essential when navigating crowded spaces.

The backpack is reasonably comfortable to carry, even with the ballistic plate, but the shoulder straps could benefit from more padding. There is a slight learning curve with organizing gear within the various compartments, but this is common with most tactical backpacks.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability is a concern, particularly with the PVC material. It is likely to show wear and tear more quickly than backpacks made from more robust materials like Cordura.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The ballistic plate requires no maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The backpack comes with the Level III+ ballistic plate as its primary accessory. The MOLLE webbing allows for customization with compatible pouches, holsters, and other gear.

It is compatible with most standard MOLLE accessories, providing a wide range of customization options.

Pros and Cons of NcStar Tactical Backpack, 10″ x 12″ Level III+ Shooter’s Cut PE Hard Ballistic Plate Black